Khabib Nurmagomedov confesses why Islam Makhachev vs. Alexander Volkanovski was “mentally challenging” for him

Khabib Nurmagomedov just recently opened about why Islam Makhachev’s fight with Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 284 was mentally challenging for him. Nurmagomedov and Makhachev share a close relationship, as they matured training together under the assistance of Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov. However, it was not simply their relationship that made the fight challenging for Khabib. The situations surrounding the match likewise contributed.

In an interview with Gorilla Energy, Nurmagomedov discussed that the fight was mentally challenging since it occurred far from house. The time distinction in between the fight place and Abu Dhabi, where they generally battled, indicated that Makhachev had 11 hours less for acclimatization and healing. This indicated less time for consuming, sleeping, and putting on weight, which is very important for a fighter cutting weight. Nurmagomedov comprehended the obstacles Makhachev dealt with and stressed over him.

For the very first time in his life, Nurmagomedov was not there to assistance Makhachev throughout the fight. He had actually revealed prior to the bout that he would be stepping far from his function as an MMA coach. This lack contributed to Nurmagomedov’s concerns and made the scenario a lot more mentally challenging for him.

Islam Makhachev is understood for cutting a substantial quantity of weight to make the 155-pound limitation. Having 11 hours less to rehydrate than regular would have certainly impacted him on fight night. Additionally, the lack of Nurmagomedov, who had actually been a substantial existence in Makhachev’s corner and training, likely contributed to the psychological trouble of the fight.

Javier Mendez, the head coach of American Kickboxing Academy (AKA), has actually understood Nurmagomedov and Makhachev for over a years. He remained in Makhachev’s corner for the fight against Volkanovski. Mendez exposed that Nurmagomedov was extremely stressed over the match and revealed his issues to Mendez prior to the fight. Despite Nurmagomedov’s concerns, Mendez assured him that they would win the fight.

Overall, the mix of the distinct situations surrounding the fight and the lack of Nurmagomedov made Makhachev’s match with Volkanovski mentally challenging for the previous light-weight champ. He comprehended the obstacles Makhachev dealt with and stressed over his wellness. Despite his issues, Makhachev and his group were positive in their capabilities and eventually protected the triumph.